When you’re looking for a hearty, comforting soup to warm up on a cold day, this Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup is the perfect choice. This delicious soup is loaded with smoky kielbasa sausage, tender potatoes, and a blend of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that will satisfy the whole family. It’s an ideal recipe for meal prep and makes for excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Kielbasa Sausage: 1 lb, sliced into rounds
- Potatoes: 4 medium, peeled and diced
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Chopped Green Onions or Parsley: for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the kielbasa sausage into rounds, and set aside.
- Dice the potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
- Cook the Sausage
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot for added flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
- Stir in the dried thyme (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend Part of the Soup (Optional)
- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend some of the vegetables and potatoes, or transfer a few cups to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Add Cream and Kielbasa
- Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked kielbasa sausage to the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 430
- Total Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on the specific sausage and ingredients used.
Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup
- Choose Your Potatoes Wisely: Russet potatoes will give a softer, starchier texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes add a creamier consistency. Both work well in this recipe, so pick based on your preference.
- Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes after cooking, or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. For a thinner consistency, add extra broth.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for extra flavor and texture.
- For a Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk in place of the heavy cream. The soup will be less rich but still delicious.
- Add Smokiness: If you love a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke along with the broth.
- Garnish Options: Besides green onions or parsley, you can add shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for an even richer flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with other types of smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even Italian sausage. Keep in mind that different sausages will alter the flavor of the soup.
2. Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based milk alternative, although this will slightly change the flavor and texture. Coconut cream would be the best option for a creamy texture.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. However, if you plan to freeze it, consider waiting to add the cream until you’re ready to reheat. Cream-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen, so add the cream after thawing and reheating.
5. Can I add more protein?
Yes, you can add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or even shredded chicken to increase the protein content and add more flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat in a pot on the stove over low to medium heat. If the soup appears separated after reheating, add a splash of cream or broth and stir well.
Conclusion
Creamy Kielbasa and Potato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky kielbasa, creamy broth, and tender vegetables creates a soul-warming meal that’s sure to please. With simple ingredients and a short prep time, this recipe is great for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking. Make it ahead, freeze it, or enjoy it fresh out of the pot—no matter how you serve it, this soup is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your bowl of warmth and savor every spoonful of this hearty, delicious soup!